WhatsApp quoteImport / Export Code is a customs client code that lets your company clear goods through UAE ports and airports, and it applies to any company that physically imports or exports goods, whether mainland or free zone. For most clients, the Federal Tax Authority's EmaraTax portal makes Import / Export Code a digital process, but the questions it asks are precise and the supporting documents must match your licence exactly. China is the UAE's largest non-oil trading partner and Jebel Ali is the main gateway for Chinese goods into the Middle East and Africa, which gives Chinese entrepreneurs a ready market and supply chain the moment their Import / Export Code licence is released. Chinese nationals are a community of roughly 200,000 to 300,000 people, with Dragon Mart and International City as its commercial heart, so the Import / Export Code authority, the banks and the immigration officers see Chinese applications every day and process them without hesitation.
Why Import / Export Code
To be clear, the steps for Import / Export Code are: apply on the Dubai Trade or relevant customs portal, upload licence and authorised signatory paperwork, pay the registration fee and then link the code to your freight forwarder. GoldenKey prepares the EmaraTax application for Import / Export Code, uploads the documents and follows up with the FTA until the certificate is issued. GoldenKey has prepared Import / Export Code files for Chinese customers in trading, manufacturing, electronics and e-commerce, which means we know which China documents need attestation and which can be submitted as plain copies.
Documents required
For most clients, for import / export code for Chinese-owned companies the issuing authority asks for the following supporting documents, and we tell you exactly how each must be formatted.
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
Pricing
Pricing for import / export code for Chinese-owned companies depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated. All prices for import / export code for Chinese-owned companies are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing ahead of payment.
| GoldenKey service fee | AED 2,000 |
|---|
Dubai Customs or respective emirate customs code for trade activity
Request this servicePrices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-05.
Why the UAE
As we tell every client, the dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, which removes currency risk for import / export code for Chinese-owned companies and makes international pricing simple. Banking, logistics, telecoms and digital government services in the UAE are among the most advanced in the region, which keeps the running costs of import / export code for Chinese-owned companies predictable.
Why GoldenKey
As a rule, after your Import / Export Code licence is granted, the same team handles renewals, visa additions, amendments and tax registrations, so you never have to explain your business twice. On the ground, we speak the languages our clients speak, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu and Malayalam, and we can arrange Russian, French and Mandarin support for import / export code for Chinese-owned companies. Put simply, we will tell you plainly if Import / Export Code is not the right choice for your plan and point you to a better option, even when that option costs less.
Call or WhatsApp GoldenKey today and a consultant will walk you through import / export code for Chinese-owned companies step by step, with no obligation and no pressure.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss the Import / Export Code deadline?
Late registration attracts a fixed penalty, and late filings add further penalties. If you are already late, GoldenKey can register you and advise on penalty reconsideration where grounds exist.
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
The FTA typically responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
Can GoldenKey act as my tax agent?
Yes. GoldenKey can prepare and submit filings on your behalf and handle FTA correspondence, so you have one point of contact for licence, visa and tax matters.
Can a Chinese citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Yes. Chinese nationals can own the full share capital of a Import / Export Code company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
Do Chinese nationals need a UAE visa before applying for Import / Export Code?
No, it does not. You can apply for the licence from China with scanned supporting documents, and the investor UAE residence visa is processed afterwards.
